Jutta Leerdam: The Dutch Speed Skating Icon at the 2026 Winter Olympics
MILAN, 07 February 2026 — As the 2026 Winter Olympics unfold across Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, few athletes have commanded as much attention as Dutch speed skating sensation Jutta Leerdam. Known as the “Ice Queen,” the 27-year-old enters these Games not only as a world-class sprinter but as a global brand, balancing her pursuit of Olympic gold with a high-profile personal life that has made her one of the most followed winter athletes in history.
The Road to Milan-Cortina 2026
Jutta Leerdam arrived in Italy this week under intense media scrutiny. While her athletic pedigree is undisputed—having secured a silver medal in the 1,000m at the 2022 Beijing Games—her journey to 2026 has been marked by both triumph and controversy. Recent reports have highlighted her “diva” status, with social media backlash erupting just 12 hours ago after she shared images of her arrival via private jet.
Despite the off-ice noise, Leerdam remains a powerhouse in the 500m and 1,000m events. Experts note that her technical precision in the 1,000m remains her greatest asset. As the former World Sprint Champion, she is tipped to be a primary contender for the podium, seeking to upgrade her previous silver to a gold medal.
Athletic Profile and Personal Bests
Standing at 1.81 metres, Leerdam’s physical stature provides the leverage necessary for the explosive starts required in long-track sprinting. Her career is defined by a series of records, including the fastest 1,000-metre time performed at sea level (1:13.15), set in Heerenveen.
| Event | Personal Best | Location | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500 Metres | 37.14 | Heerenveen (NED) | 27.12.2021 |
| 1000 Metres | 1:11.84 | Salt Lake City (USA) | 15.02.2020 |
| 1500 Metres | 1:49.83 | Salt Lake City (USA) | 10.03.2019 |
Career Milestones
- 2017: Rose to international prominence in the junior circuits.
- 2022: Won the World Sprint Championship and an Olympic Silver Medal (1,000m).
- 2024-2025: Maintained dominance in the World Cup circuit despite minor injury setbacks.
- 2026: Entered the Milan-Cortina Olympics as a top-three seed in the 1,000m.
The “Jake Paul” Effect and Global Fame
Leerdam’s profile transcended sports following her relationship with American influencer and boxer Jake Paul. Now engaged, the couple has become a fixture of international sports media. While some critics argue that her celebrity status is a distraction—citing recent “diva” headlines—Leerdam has consistently countered that her success on the ice predates her social media fame.
With over 4.5 million followers on Instagram, she has successfully bridged the gap between elite athletics and lifestyle branding, working as both a professional athlete and a model. Her fiancé, Jake Paul, has been vocal in his support, recently defending her after a fall in training nearly jeopardised her Olympic preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Jutta Leerdam won an Olympic Gold medal?
As of the start of the 2026 Games, Jutta Leerdam has one Olympic silver medal, which she won in the 1,000m event at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. She is competing in Milan-Cortina 2026 with the goal of winning her first gold.
How tall is Jutta Leerdam?
Jutta Leerdam stands 1.81 metres (approximately 5’11”) tall, which is considered an advantage for generating power in long-track speed skating.
Where was Jutta Leerdam born?
She was born on 30 December 1998, in ‘s-Gravenzande, Netherlands.
What is Jutta Leerdam’s world record?
While world records often fluctuate, Leerdam holds the record for the fastest 1,000m speed skating time at sea level, clocked at 1 minute and 13.15 seconds in Heerenveen.
Is Jutta Leerdam still skating for the Netherlands?
Yes, Jutta Leerdam continues to represent the Netherlands. Despite her global brand and time spent in the United States, she remains a core member of the Dutch Olympic speed skating contingent.